How Do Interferometers Work in Nanotechnology Applications?
Interferometers work by splitting a coherent light source into two or more beams that travel different paths. When these beams are recombined, they produce an interference pattern that can be analyzed to determine various properties:
Surface Profiling: Interferometers can create detailed surface profiles of nanomaterials, helping to identify irregularities and defects. Thin Film Measurement: They measure the thickness of thin films with sub-nanometer precision, which is crucial in semiconductor manufacturing. Refractive Index Sensing: Interferometers can detect changes in the refractive index of materials, aiding in the study of optical properties.
